Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis

To feel your best during treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) or giant cell arteritis (GCA):

• Take your medicine as prescribed by your doctor.
• Work closely with your doctor and nurse, reporting any medicine side effects or symptoms of giant cell arteritis, such as headache, jaw pain, and vision problems.
• Eat a balanced diet.
• Stop smoking, and avoid being around tobacco smoke.
• Reduce how much alcohol you drink. It's a good idea to have no more than one beer or one glass of wine each day.
• Be sure you Reference get enough calcium and vitamin D to help prevent bone thinning (Reference osteoporosis Opens New Window) if you are taking corticosteroids.
• Get mild, regular weight-bearing exercise, which will help keep your bones strong and bolster your physical and emotional ability to handle your illness.

If any of your symptoms get worse or come back, contact your doctor or nurse.

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